Forward Deployed Software Engineer (FDE)

About the role

We are seeking a highly technical Forward Deployed Software Engineer (FDE) to work directly with our customers. In this role, you will lead the deployment of Zebra software, engineer customized solutions, and resolve complex technical challenges to drive product success.

Responsibilities

• Pilot Deployment & Training: Lead the execution of pilot programs at customer locations. Facilitate comprehensive knowledge transfer and team training to ensure software adoption and a successful transition to live operations.
• Understand Customer use cases and Workflows: Gain a deep understanding of how Zebra solutions are implemented in practical environments. While immediate expertise in every scenario is not required, a proactive commitment to learning client operations and resolving their unique pain points is essential.
• Design & Architecture: Utilize your field experience to influence system architecture, design, and code quality. Actively contribute to code reviews to ensure our software is robust, production-grade, and fully optimized for real-world deployment.
• Onsite Support & Coding: Provide direct, on-premise technical support, which includes travel to client facilities. You are expected to be highly hands-on during pilot phases—actively debugging, refactoring code, and rapidly redeploying solutions as issues arise. Furthermore, you will act as a comprehensive technical consultant, reviewing the client’s broader software architecture and codebase to resolve complex systemic issues, even those originating outside the Zebra ecosystem.
• Full-Stack & API Development: Architect and implement scalable cloud-based backend infrastructures, intuitive user interfaces, and robust APIs. These components will facilitate seamless data exchange and connectivity between our core software solutions, client databases, and various third-party ecosystems.
• Use AI Tools for efficiency: Use AI coding assistants (like GitHub Copilot, Cursor, or Claude) to write code faster, analyze problems, and build better solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required in computer science, Software Engineer, or related technical discipline.
• 2+ years of engineering experience.
• Professional software engineering experience specializing in full-stack cloud solutions.
• Must possess Android development skills or demonstrate the ability to learn rapidly.
• Problem Solving: A proactive, self-starter capable of diagnosing bugs and writing real-time code to resolve complex challenges.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree preferred.
• Must possess Android development skills or demonstrate the ability to learn rapidly.
• Communication: Proven ability to articulate technical concepts and use cases clearly to both engineering teams and non-technical customer stakeholders.
• A forward-thinking mindset with an enthusiasm for leveraging AI-assisted development tools to optimize coding speed and output quality.
• Technology Skills:
  • Backend: Java, Spring Boot, Hibernate, Node.js
  • Frontend: JavaScript (ReactJS)
  • Cloud & Tools: Google Cloud (GCP), Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD, Microservices
  • Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, Firebase
  • AI Tools: GitHub Copilot, Cursor, or Claude
• Preferred: Android Development (Android SDK, Kotlin/Java)
• Travel Willingness to travel to client locations to facilitate software deployment and provide on-site technical resolution (Approximate travel 25%).

Benefits

Equal Opportunity Employer Zebra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability and protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance in applying for a position, please contact us at workplace.accommodations@zebra.com.

Know Your Rights https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf Conozca Sus Derechos https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRightsSp_10_20.pdf

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Contact us to request accommodation at workplace.accommodations@zebra.com.

Pay Range $86,080.00 - $129,120.00 Annual Incentive Compensation In addition to base pay, Zebra offers this role the opportunity to earn a performance-based annual cash incentive, at a target equal to 10% of base pay, in accordance with the terms of the applicable incentive plan.

Zebra Total Rewards includes more than just pay and is structured to meet the needs of our changing global business and evolving talent. We are committed to providing our employees with a benefits program that is comprehensive and competitive – including healthcare, wellness, inclusion networks, and continued learning and development offerings.

We offer community service days, in addition to the traditional insurances, compensation, parental leave, employee assistance program and paid time off offerings depending on the country where you work.

Salary offered will vary depending on your location, job-related skills, knowledge, and experience. Additionally, all Zebra roles are eligible for cash incentive programs. For example, sales roles have additional opportunity to earn substantial variable compensation tied to quota achievement. In most other roles, the Zebra annual cash incentive program links Company and individual performance together. Some roles may also be eligible for long-term incentive equity awards.

Benefits We understand the importance of work-life balance and wellbeing, which is why we offer flexibility for our teams including: hybrid work, adaptable hours, Summer Flex Fridays, Focus Fridays, and an annual companywide well-being day to promote revitalization and success.